‘Thinking big’: How Phoenix plan to fill roster

Thursday, June 27, 2024

Mike Kelly says the Phoenix are targeting bigs and shooters ahead of the NBL25 season.

There’s been a huge transformation in the off-season for the South East Melbourne Phoenix, but there’s still work to be done, according to coach Mike Kelly.

Desperate to bounce back after finishing last season at the bottom of the NBL standings, the Phoenix have signed a raft of experienced talent – Nathan Sobey, Derrick Walton Jr, Jordan Hunter and Angus Glover, just to name a few.

Now, Kelly is eyeing the next piece in the puzzle, with local talent the focus and next month’s NBA Summer League another option to complete the roster.

“We are looking at bigs, we’re looking at someone with length and athleticism,” Kelly told Phoenix Media.

That big man department will be key, with Alan Williams’ departure offset by the arrival of Hunter, but the Phoenix still left lacking some valuable size and strength to complement Mitch Creek.

“I’m always going to try and bring in more defence, and we really need some depth in our shooting,” Kelly added.

“We have some really big holes to fill still, but with the guys we’ve got, we’re stoked.”

Kelly said the Phoenix had targeted leaders and strong fits within the playing group.

“We’ve brought in some really good team guys who can also get a bucket,” he added.